one

2.3K 45 2
                                    

Karina, also known as Jimin, and Winter, whose real name was Minjeong, had always had a relationship filled with unspoken understanding and shared laughter. They met in college during a club fair and quickly became inseparable. Their friends, Giselle and Ningning, were just as close, forming a tight-knit group that everyone around them envied.

It was a sunny Saturday morning, and the four friends had decided to go on a hike. The lush greenery and the crisp, fresh air provided a much-needed break from their busy lives. Karina and Winter led the way, with Giselle and Ningning trailing behind, laughing and joking as they navigated the rocky path.

Karina, charismatic and confident, often took on the role of the group's leader. Her assertiveness was one of the things Winter admired most about her. Winter, on the other hand, was more reserved. She had a quiet strength that balanced Karina's vibrant energy.

As they reached a clearing, the group decided to take a break. They sat down on a large rock, overlooking a serene valley below. Ningning pulled out a thermos of coffee from her backpack, and Giselle handed out sandwiches she prepared earlier.

"This view is amazing," Ningning said, taking a sip of her coffee. "We should do this more often."

Karina nodded in agreement, her eyes scanning the horizon. "Absolutely. It’s a perfect escape from all the stress."

Winter smiled softly, appreciating the moment of tranquility. She glanced at Karina, who was lost in thought. "What are you thinking about?" she asked gently.

Karina turned to her and grinned. "Just how lucky I am to have such great friends."

Winter's heart warmed at the comment, but she couldn't shake a nagging feeling. Karina often said sweet things, but sometimes her words carried an unintentional sting.

The conversation soon shifted to their plans for the summer. Giselle and Ningning were excited about a trip to the beach, while Karina and Winter were still figuring out their own plans.

"I was thinking we could visit my parents for a weekend," Karina suggested. "They’ve been asking about you, Minjeong."

Winter nodded, appreciating the gesture. "That sounds nice. I’d love to see them."

The group spent the next hour sharing stories and enjoying each other's company. The bond they shared was evident in their laughter and the ease with which they communicated.

As they started their descent, the path grew narrower and more challenging. Karina took charge, guiding them carefully. Winter followed closely, feeling a sense of security in Karina's presence.

Back at the parking lot, they piled into Karina's car, tired but happy. The drive back to the city was filled with music and conversation. Giselle and Ningning, sitting in the back seat, were debating the best movies of the year, while Winter leaned her head against the window, watching the world blur by.

Karina glanced at her, sensing her partner’s quiet mood. "Penny for your thoughts?" she asked, reaching over to give Winter's hand a gentle squeeze.

Winter smiled faintly. "Just thinking about today. It was really nice."

Karina nodded, satisfied with the response, and returned her focus to the road. The rest of the drive was uneventful, and soon they were back in the city, dropping Giselle and Ningning off at their apartments.

"Thanks for today, guys," Giselle said as she got out of the car. "Let’s do it again soon."

"Absolutely," Karina agreed. "Take care, you two."

As they drove away, Karina and Winter found themselves alone for the first time that day. The city lights flashed past them, and Winter felt a wave of contentment. She loved these quiet moments with Karina, where words weren't necessary, and their connection was palpable.

Back at their apartment, they kicked off their shoes and collapsed onto the couch. Karina turned on the TV, flipping through channels until she found a movie. Winter snuggled up next to her, feeling the warmth of Jimin's embrace.

They watched the movie in comfortable silence, each lost in their own thoughts. For Winter, these moments were the highlights of her day. The simple act of being together, sharing the same space, brought her a deep sense of peace.

As the credits rolled, Karina turned to Winter with a smile. "Want some ice cream?"

Winter laughed softly. "You always know how to make everything better."

Karina winked, getting up to retrieve the ice cream from the freezer. She returned with two bowls, handing one to Winter. They sat together, enjoying their treat, and Winter felt a surge of love for Karina.

"Hey," she said softly, breaking the comfortable silence. "Thanks for today. I had a really great time."

Karina looked at her with genuine affection. "Me too. We should do it more often."

Winter nodded, feeling her heart swell with gratitude. She knew their relationship wasn't perfect, but moments like these reminded her of why they were together. They had their ups and downs, but at the end of the day, they always found their way back to each other.

As they finished their ice cream, Karina suggested they go to bed. Winter agreed, feeling the exhaustion of the day catch up with her. They climbed into bed, and Winter nestled into Karina arms, feeling safe and loved.

"Goodnight, Jimin," she whispered, closing her eyes.

"Goodnight, Minjeong," Karina replied, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead.

mean it - winrinaWhere stories live. Discover now